White Aconite, a traditional Chinese medicine, is the dried rhizome of the Araceae plant Aconitum carmichaelii. It is also known as Yu Bai Fu and Ye Ban Xia. The plant resembles a taro root. Let's learn more about the efficacy and effects of White Aconite!
【Efficacy and Effects of White Aconite】
1. Expelling Wind and Stopping Spasms
White Aconite is primarily used to treat symptoms such as facial and ocular asymmetry, limb weakness, limb spasms, dizziness, and vertigo caused by stroke. If there is phlegm-dampness accompanying the stroke, known as phlegm-dampness syndrome, White Aconite has even better therapeutic effects.
2. Detoxifying and Dispersing Nodules
It is mainly used to treat lymphadenitis nodules, which is equivalent to modern lymph node tuberculosis. White Aconite can disperse nodules, and pharmacological studies have also found that White Aconite's effect against Mycobacterium tuberculosis is second only to streptomycin, so it can be used to treat lymphadenitis.
3. Whitening and Removing Spots
The cosmetic effects include removing sweat spots, scar nodules, and acne. It is often used as an additive or preservative in cosmetics and skincare products.
【Prescriptions of White Aconite】
1. Treatment for hemiplegia caused by stroke: Grind equal parts of White Aconite, White Silkworm, and Scorpion (toxicity removed). Take 3g of the powder each time, mix it with hot wine, and take it orally.
2. Treatment for sore throat and swelling: Grind White Aconite and Alum in equal parts, apply the powder to the tongue, and spit out the saliva.
3. Treatment for inguinal hernia: Grind one White Aconite into powder, mix it with saliva and apply it on the navel, then use moxibustion with Artemisia argyi three to five times to cure it.
4. Treatment for infantile slow spleen-wind: Take half an ounce of White Aconite, half an ounce of Aconitum carmichaelii, and one qian of Black Aconite. Remove the skin of the Black Aconite and grind them into powder. Take two qian each time, add five slices of ginger, decoct in water, and take it orally. This prescription can also be used to treat wind in adults, stop vomiting, and transform phlegm.
5. Treatment for red and white vitiligo: Grind White Aconite and sulfur in equal parts, add ginger juice to make a paste, and apply it with a wooden spatula. It can be applied several times a day.
【Precautions for Using White Aconite】
However, White Aconite is a toxic medicine, mainly manifested in its strong irritation to the skin and mucous membranes.
Therefore, when using White Aconite for facial masks or using self-made Qibai San, it is necessary to test the skin for any discomfort before using it, and it should not be used for a long time.
For internal use, it should be taken in small amounts, and the dosage for decoction should be controlled within the range of 3-6 grams. Due to its toxicity, pregnant women should also avoid using White Aconite.
White Aconite does have side effects. For example, many women who pursue beauty use White Aconite for facial masks, but they may find that their faces are red and swollen the next day. This is related to the properties of White Aconite. Since White Aconite is warm and pungent, and has toxicity, it can cause redness and swelling. It is important to consult a doctor before using it.
